Specialty Referral Completion Among Primary Care Patients: Results From the ASPN Referral Study

• DOI: 10.1370/afm.703
• Publication Date: 2007-07-30T22:18:34Z
• Authors: C. B. Forrest; E. Shadmi; P. A. Nutting; B. Starfield
• Keywords: Specialty; Concordance

<b>PURPOSE</b> This study describes referral completion from the perspectives of patients and primary care physicians identifies predictors adherence to recommendation. <b>METHODS</b> We observed a cohort 776 referred offices 133 in 81 practices 30 states. Referring completed self-administered questionnaires at time decision 3 months later. <b>RESULTS</b> Physicians reported that 79.2% had specialist visit, 83.0% indicated they referral. The most common reasons for not completing were “lack time” patient belief “health problem resolved.” κ statistic patient-physician agreement on was 0.34, indicating only fair concordance. Patients Medicaid plans less likely than others complete referral, more experience health plan denial. A longer duration relationship with physician physician/staff scheduling specialty appointment both positive completion. <b>CONCLUSIONS</b> About 8 10 within months. Findings this suggest rates may be increased by assisting their appointments promoting continuity care.